Gadgets

I’ve just had to go through a full install of Windows 7 on my refurbished laptop in the process of upgrading it, and either I’ve become more competent, or it’s a lot easier than it ever was previously (with earlier versions of Windows and other laptops). After years of swearing by desktops and the ease of replacing components as a means of upgrading and squeezing that extra period of life out of the machines, I opted for a refurbished laptop earlier this year. I’ve actually bought exactly the same model as the laptop I use at work, a Lenovo X201, as I’ve been so impressed with its robustness and balance of size, speed and performance. But I knew, from some casual research online that it was also relatively easy to upgrade.

I came across this in-depth article all about the various technologies that are in development for ebook readers and tablets. It’s mostly about the different screen types – whether they’re e-ink, Qualcomm’s mirasol, or liquavista – the article’s a great background on developments that have taken place and what we can look forward to. Link: HERE

Ok, I know I’m all grown up and shouldn’t be interested in a phone that includes its own portable playstation system, but I am… in fact, I’m very interested in it.

Not only does it appear to have full smartphone capabilities, but it’s apparently housed in a reasonably svelte package (albeit larger than typical smartphones) – and it looks pretty damn good.

The videos I’ve seen online about playable demos are really encouraging… as long as the battery life holds up, it’ll make for more entertaining journeys on public transport, for example!

One of the main unanswered questions currently focuses on how much the thing will cost. Well, Amazon UK currently has the phone available to pre-order for £599.99 (link HERE) – scheduled to be released on 4th April 2011. Inevitably, this price will tumble as the April launch date looms – and I also expect there to be significant discounts when purchasing the phone through a mobile carrier, as it’ll be heavily subsidised too. The main networks in the UK have already announced that they’ll be carrying the phone.

Importantly, as with all gaming devices, they live or die by the quality of the games available – and Sony have apparently lined up 50 games to be ready at launch, including some classics… I’m just hoping my all time favourite PS one game is on there: Circuit Breakers!!!

Unfortunately delivery dates over the festive break mean I won’t get mine till the New Year, but it just means I can get all my ebooks in order between then and now. I have, however, had plenty of opportunity to set my mum’s Kindle up, source her some good books and have a general play around with it. My experience with it led me to order one for myself… it’s just that good!

The Kindle 3G, at £149 £152 following the VAT increase (including VAT and delivery – click HERE to buy yours now!) is exceptionally good value and the e-ink screen has to be seen to be believed/appreciated. Anyone that’s ever had to contend with looking at a regular laptop screen in the sunlight will know exactly what I’m talking about.

Have a look at the video Amazon has put together themselves on the Kindle 3G page – it’s really quite good and helps explain fairly clearly what the Kindle is and what the features and benefits are. You can access the page by clicking HERE.

The Samsung N210 is the 3rd netbook I’ve had, and I have to say it’s easily the best. The build quality is exceptional, battery life phenomenal and they keyboard’s great to type on, even for hours at a time. Train journeys and flights are so much easier with one of these little netbooks to keep you entertained.

Samsung claim something like 11 hour battery life. I’ve not put it to the full test yet, but it’s certainly kept me entertained for a couple of movies during a 4 hour flight and was still showing over 6 hours battery life!

Some reviews had mentioned that the Windows 7 starter addition was too restrictive, but you need to remember that this is a netbook and not a high end desktop or laptop machine – it’s not going to be suitable for Photoshop, for example, but it’s fine to work online, use Office and/or listen to MP3’s.